Integrated Assessment of the Vulnerability of the Abidjan Coastline (Ivory Coast) to Marine Oil Pollution

This study proposes an integrated approach to assess the vulnerability of the Abidjan coastline to marine pollution by hydrocarbons. The objective is to identify the most vulnerable coastal sectors through a multicriteria analysis in support of environmental management. The methodology combines morpho-sedimentary, biological, and socio-economic indicators, integrated within a Geographic Information System (GIS). Multicriteria analysis (MCA), coupled with the Jenks classification method, was used to weight and rank the parameters according to four sensitivity levels. The results reveal strong spatial variability in coastal vulnerability. The municipalities of Yopougon and Port-Bouët emerge as the most vulnerable areas due to high population density, the presence of petroleum-related activities, and the richness of coastal ecosystems. Attécoubé, Treichville, and Bingerville display moderate vulnerability, characterized by moderate population density and a mixture of natural and urban environments, serving as transitional zones between ecological areas and industrialized spaces. In contrast, Koumassi, Marcory, and Plateau exhibit low vulnerability, dominated by highly urbanized and artificialized areas, while Cocody shows relatively high vulnerability. The developed approach therefore constitutes a decision-support tool for institutions responsible for managing marine pollution, notably the Ivorian Anti-Pollution Centre (CIAPOL) and the National Office of Civil Protection (ONPC). It can be adapted to other coastal areas of West Africa facing similar challenges.